Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery — Part II
October 15, 2026 • 5:30 PM • Benton County Cemetery
Join us for Part II of our popular lantern tour of the Benton County Cemetery — uncovering stories of those who came before us, including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1908 4th Olympic games end in London
• 1964 Barbra Streisand's "People," album goes #1 for 5 weeks
Minnesota
• On April 3, 1920, St. Paul’s Union Station opened.
• The Lake Superior agate became Minnesota’s state gemstone in 1969.
Benton County
• On March 4, 1901, citizens in Foley circulated a petition to build a courthouse and move county offices there.
• Benton was one of only three original Minnesota counties officially opened to settlers.